Space Brief 7 Aug 2025
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STARLINK-31304 (59231)
COSPAR: 2024-049A | Alt Name: Starlink 31304
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
March 16, 2024
Launch Site
Launch Pad
LC39A
Launch Vehicle
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
59231
International Designator
2024-049A
Decay Date
4/6/2026
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Basic Satellite Info
Name
STARLINK-31304
Alternative Name
Starlink 31304
Type
Payload
Status
Partially operational
Owner
SPXS
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Summary
The satellite STARLINK-31304, also known as Starlink 31304, is a communication satellite belonging to the Starlink v2 Mini configuration and was launched on March 16, 2024, from LC39A at AFETR using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle. It has a length of 0.3 meters, a diameter of 4.1 meters, and a span of 29 meters. The satellite's dry mass is 700 kg and it weighs 730 kg at launch. Equipped with Ku/Ka/E-band payload and optical inter-satellite link, it uses solar arrays and batteries for power and Argon ion thrusters as its motor system. Manufactured by SPXS, the spacecraft is owned by SpaceX and has a box plus pan shape.
Starlink is a satellite constellation developed by SpaceX with the aim of providing global broadband internet coverage. Thousands of small satellites are deployed in low Earth orbit (LEO), enabling high-speed internet access even in remote areas. However, the rapid increase in satellites raises concerns about space debris and the potential for collisions, which can lead to further debris creation and endanger other spacecraft. Additionally, the sheer number of Starlink satellites can affect astronomical observations by increasing light pollution. Proper deorbiting plans and international coordination are essential to mitigate these challenges and ensure long-term sustainability in space.
Starlink is a satellite constellation developed by SpaceX with the aim of providing global broadband internet coverage. Thousands of small satellites are deployed in low Earth orbit (LEO), enabling high-speed internet access even in remote areas. However, the rapid increase in satellites raises concerns about space debris and the potential for collisions, which can lead to further debris creation and endanger other spacecraft. Additionally, the sheer number of Starlink satellites can affect astronomical observations by increasing light pollution. Proper deorbiting plans and international coordination are essential to mitigate these challenges and ensure long-term sustainability in space.
Physical Characteristics
Length
0.3
Diameter
4.1
Span
29
Dry Mass
700
Launch Mass
730
Shape
Box + pan
Radar Cross Section
Unknown
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Technical Details
Payload
Starlink Group 6-44-01
Purpose
Communication
Mission
Communication
Manufacturer
SPXS
Life Expectancy
Unknown
Bus
Starlink V2M
Configuration
Starlink v2 Mini
Motor
Argon ion thrusters
Equipment
Ku/Ka/E-band payload, optical inter-satellite link
Power System
Solar arrays, batteries
ADCS
Unknown
Transmitter Frequency
Unknown
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